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Why is my female lovebird spreading wings and straining her vent?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Female

We have a female love bird that is about a year old. Today she is standing on my husband’s shoulder spreading her wings, sticking her butt in the air and we can see her anus appears as though she’s trying to push something out, bulging slightly and relaxing alternately. What does this mean?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 8th, 2017

Hello, & thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Lucy may be signaling her intent to be bred. If the behavior continues beyond the next day or so, & it is accompanied by any lethargy or loss of appetite, she may also be in some distress if she has become egg bound. This will require an examination by your veterinarian. Hopefully, all she is doing is flirting with your husband. Take care.

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